What's The Rusch

Rebecca Rusch
  • 4.9 (46)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

What’s the Rusch is a podcast about finding stillness and shedding the armor we wear to reveal the masterpiece within. Hosted by Rebecca Rusch—a seven-time world champion, Hall of Fame athlete, celebrated endurance icon, Emmy winner, and founder of the Athlete Operating System—the show takes listeners on a transformative journey with some of the world’s most accomplished individuals. Known as the "Queen of Pain" for her unmatched grit, Rebecca shifts the spotlight to a deeper truth: the most profound growth often comes not from what we achieve, but from what we let go of.    Inspired by Michelangelo’s insight in creating the statue of David by chiseling away everything that wasn’t David, Rebecca champions the art of shedding: shedding fear, baggage, and the armor we build to protect ourselves. Each episode delves behind the scenes of high achievers, exploring what they’ve had to lose to become whole. What identities have they outgrown? What vulnerabilities have unlocked their greatest triumphs? And what lessons can we take from their private battles to shed what no longer serves us?   With conversations navigating ancient wisdom, modern science, and personal revelation, What’s the Rusch redefines the boxes we’re put in, revealing the hidden versions of who people are and the powerful truths they carry. Rebecca’s own path—marked by extreme challenges and moments of vulnerability—sets the tone for uncovering the humanity behind the headlines.   This is more than a podcast—it’s an explorer’s guide to becoming your own masterpiece by pausing and removing everything that isn’t you. Through the stories of leaders you know and the truths you don’t, What’s the Rusch invites you to embrace the courage to shed your armor, redefine your identity, and navigate your own extraordinary and adventurous path.

  1. 18h ago

    Queen of Pain to Queen of Presence with Amelia Boone | EP46

    Amelia Boone’s journey is about moving beyond the myth of toughness to embrace honesty, presence, and real resilience. In this episode, Rebecca and Amelia dig into what happens when the “Queen of Pain” identity no longer fits, and how facing struggle head-on can lead to deeper growth. Together, they talk about the realities of mental health, the courage to be vulnerable, and the ongoing work of aligning who you are on the inside with what the world sees. Rebecca & Amelia Discuss:The origins and impact of the “Queen of Pain” nicknameNavigating eating disorders and OCD as an elite athleteThe pressure to appear tough versus the reality of emotional struggleThe process and risk of going public with mental health challengesBalancing a demanding legal career with high-level competitionRedefining resilience and toughness in sport and lifeUsing her platform to advocate for mental health and authenticityThe shift from achievement-driven identity to living with greater presence Transformative InsightsTrue resilience is about honesty and emotional openness, not just enduranceLetting go of old identities can create space for real growthAligning your inner and outer worlds is a powerful act of self-respectVulnerability can be a source of strength and connection Vulnerable MomentsAmelia’s decision to share her eating disorder and OCD publiclyThe fear of judgment and the relief of finally being honestAdmitting that toughness isn’t about hiding emotion, but embracing itThe ongoing challenge of recovery and self-acceptance Practical WisdomHow to recognize when an identity no longer serves youTools for navigating recovery and building new routinesThe importance of community and honest conversation in healingWhy presence matters more than performance Personal GrowthAmelia’s evolution from world champion to advocate for mental healthRebecca’s reflections on the value of showing up as your real selfThe role of storytelling and open dialogue in breaking stigmaBoth guests’ commitment to using their platforms for collective good Links & ResourcesAmelia Boone: InstagramEating Disorder Recovery: NEDA SponsorThis episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho where adventure, community, and purpose come together in the wild. Join us in Sun Valley for a ride that’s about more than the miles: it’s about showing up for yourself, your community, and the planet. Registration is open at rebeccasprivateidaho.com. Get Connected: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Become a Partner: Interested in aligning your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and growth? Contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com for sponsorship opportunities and our media kit.

    1h 9m

  2. May 20

    Wild Purpose and Everyday Awe with Erin Sprague | EP45

    Erin Sprague’s story is about transforming personal adventure into collective impact. In this episode, Rebecca and Erin explore what it means to lead with purpose in the outdoor industry, the lessons learned from endurance challenges, and the importance of showing up for the causes and communities you care about—even when the path isn’t clear. Together, they discuss how small moments of awe, resilience in leadership, and a deep connection to wild places can shape a meaningful life. In this episode, Rebecca and Erin discuss: Erin’s evolution from Adirondack athlete to CEO of Protect Our Winters (POW)How running, skiing, and biking shaped her identity and leadership styleThe drive to turn personal passion for the outdoors into climate advocacy and community actionNavigating uphill challenges as a woman in sports and businessThe power of small, everyday moments—like a walk outside or birdsong—for resilience and presenceWhy showing up for your values matters, even when the outcome is uncertainBuilding community and collective action through POW and industry partnershipsLessons from epic adventures and why the “unlock” in life might be found in simplicityThe importance of getting outside, even for just 10 minutes, to reset and recharge Transformative Insights: Leadership is about showing up for your values, not just your resumeSmall moments of awe can be as transformative as big, bold adventuresCommunity and collective action are essential for meaningful changeResilience is built through both epic challenges and everyday presence Vulnerable Moments: Erin shares the realities of leading in the climate space when the path isn’t always clearHonest reflections on balancing ambition, family, and advocacyStories of setbacks, uncertainty, and the courage to keep showing upThe emotional impact of connecting with nature and community in difficult times Practical Wisdom: How to find meaning in both big achievements and small daily ritualsTools for building resilience through movement and mindfulnessThe value of community in advocacy, sport, and personal growthWhy it’s important to take action, even if it’s just a few minutes outside Personal Growth: Erin’s journey from athlete to advocate, executive, and mentorRebecca’s reflections on presence, purpose, and the power of wild placesHow both use adventure and storytelling to inspire change and connectionThe role of honesty and vulnerability in building a purposeful life Helpful Links: Protect Our Winters: protectourwinters.orgPOW Films: “The Hypocrite” featuring Amy EngelbretsonErin’s LinkedIn: Erin SpragueInstagram: @erin_sprague Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho—where adventure, community, and purpose come together in the wild. Join us in Sun Valley for a ride that’s about more than the miles: it’s about showing up for yourself, your community, and the planet. Registration is open at rebeccasprivateidaho.com. Support What’s the Rusch If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite insight on social media. Your support helps us keep bringing you these honest, inspiring conversations. Get Connected: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Become a Partner: Interested in aligning your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and growth? Contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com for sponsorship opportunities and our media kit.

    1h 2m

  3. May 6

    Everyday Excellence with Brad Stulberg | EP44

    Brad Stulberg’s journey is about redefining excellence for everyone, not just elite performers. In this episode, Rebecca and Brad dig into what it means to pursue sustainable success, why community and vulnerability matter, and how anyone can practice excellence in daily life. Drawing from his new book, The Way of Excellence, Brad shares science-backed insights and personal stories that illuminate how excellence is a daily practice rooted in groundedness, resilience, and authentic connection. Together, they explore the value of showing up fully, the courage it takes to thrive in a chaotic world, and how the pursuit of excellence can be accessible and meaningful for all. Show notes: In this episode, Rebecca and Brad discuss: Why excellence isn’t reserved for world champions and how everyday people can pursue their own version of greatnessThe difference between fleeting achievement and sustainable successBrad’s personal story: from academic to bestselling author, coach, and powerlifting enthusiastHow community, challenge, and vulnerability shape our growthThe science behind resilience, stress regulation, and fulfillmentLessons from coaching executives, athletes, and creatives on balance and burnoutThe core ideas from Brad’s new book, The Way of ExcellenceHow to thrive amid uncertainty using psychology, philosophy, and sports scienceThe importance of doing hard things—not for the outcome, but for the process and self-discovery Transformative Insights: Excellence is a practice, not a destination—available to anyone willing to show upCommunity and shared struggle are essential for growth and belongingVulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, in both sport and lifeSustainable performance means honoring limits and building habits that last Vulnerable Moments: Brad shares how powerlifting, despite not being a pro athlete, gives him meaning, connection, and humilityHonest reflections on facing fears, letting go of perfection, and embracing the unknownRebecca and Brad discuss the challenges of identity shifts and finding purpose beyond titles or achievements Practical Wisdom: How to approach excellence as a daily practice—grounded, intentional, and adaptableTools for building resilience and regulating stress in high-pressure environmentsThe role of mentorship, both giving and receiving, in personal and professional growthWhy slowing down and tuning into your own values leads to deeper fulfillment Personal Growth: Brad’s evolution from academic to thought leader, coach, and advocate for sustainable successRebecca’s ongoing journey to redefine achievement and embrace groundednessHow movement, nature, and reflection are tools for self-discovery and healingThe power of storytelling and honest conversation in building a meaningful life Helpful Links: Brad's Website & "The Way of Excellence" (book)Brad Stulberg on InstagramBrad Stulberg on LinkedInPodcast: Excellence, Actually Support What’s the Rusch If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite insight on social media. Your support helps us keep bringing you these honest, inspiring conversations! Subscribe and Follow Rate, Review, and Share Get Connected: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Become a Partner: Want to reach an engaged audience of leaders, athletes, creatives, and purpose-driven individuals? What’s the Rusch is where your brand can align with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and personal growth. For sponsorship and media kit info, contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com.

    1 hr

  4. Apr 22

    Presence over Noise with Boone Speed | EP43

    Boone Speed’s story is one of stripping away the noise to find what’s real. In this episode, Rebecca explores Boone’s evolution from pioneering American sport climber to creative force in photography and design. Together, they reflect on how movement, art, and community can help us shed what no longer serves us and discover a deeper sense of belonging, wherever we land. Show notes: In this episode, Rebecca and Boone discuss: The early days of American sport climbing and the Utah sceneHow creativity and craft shaped Boone’s approach to climbing and photographyThe importance of mentorship and community in pushing boundariesWhy Boone chooses stillness and intentionality in a world that rewards speedBuilding culture inside brands and lessons learned from working with athletes and foundersNavigating transitions—from the crag to the ocean, from athlete to creative advisor Transformative Insights: The value of tuning out external noise to hear your own truthHow community and creativity can be anchors through changeThe power of staying “allergic to the status quo”Why choosing stillness is sometimes the boldest move Vulnerable Moments: Boone reflects on the risks and rewards of forging a new path in climbingRebecca and Boone share stories of feeling like outsiders and finding belongingHonest talk about transitions—letting go of old identities to make space for new growthBoone opens up about the challenges of balancing art, adventure, and personal life Practical Wisdom: How to approach creative work as a practice, not a performanceTools for building authentic community in any fieldThe importance of mentorship—both giving and receivingWhy slowing down can lead to deeper connection and clarity Personal Growth: Boone’s evolution from athlete to creative advisor and mentorRebecca’s ongoing journey to embrace stillness and let go of perfectionismHow both guests use movement and nature as tools for self-discoveryThe role of vulnerability in building a meaningful life Helpful Links: Boone Speed PortfolioBoone Speed on InstagramHence Creative Support What’s the Rusch If this episode moved you, please share it with someone, leave a review, send it to a training partner, or post your favorite takeaway on social media. All of these help us continue to bring you these inspiring conversations! Subscribe and Follow Rate, Review, and Share Get Connected: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road Become a Partner: Interested in reaching an engaged audience of leaders, athletes, creatives, and purpose-driven individuals? What’s the Rusch is the place to align your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and personal growth. For sponsorship inquiries and media kit information, please contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com.

    1h 6m

  5. Apr 8

    Unraveling Identity and Endurance with Cynthia Carson | EP42

    Cynthia Carson’s journey is about discovering who you are beyond the results. In this episode, Rebecca and Cynthia dig into the realities of ultra-endurance cycling, the challenge of separating identity from outcome, and the courage it takes to show up as your full self, on and off the bike. The conversation is especially meaningful as Rebecca and Cynthia recently met at the finish line of the Atlas Mountain Race, where Cynthia took the women’s win. Together, they explore how adventure, storytelling, and community can help us find presence in the hardest moments and redefine what it means to succeed. Show notes: In this episode, Rebecca and Cynthia discuss: The evolution from racer to community builder and filmmakerWhy Cynthia chooses not to lead with her athletic achievements when introducing herselfThe struggle and liberation of separating self-worth from race resultsHow ultra-distance events create space for presence and reflectionThe making of “Two Steps Forward, One Step Back” and what Cynthia learned from two years of physical and emotional challengesThe importance of showing up authentically, regardless of outcomeLessons from organizing gravel races and fostering community in cyclingThe value of curiosity and humility in adventure and life Transformative Insights: Identity is more than a podium finish—results are just one piece of the storyPresence and self-reflection are found in the quiet, difficult milesCommunity and storytelling can be powerful tools for growth and connectionConfidence is built through consistent effort, not just external validation Vulnerable Moments: Cynthia opens up about the pressure to define herself by results and the work it takes to move beyond thatHonest conversation about feeling “not enough” and learning to embrace the full spectrum of identityBoth guests share stories of meeting at the finish line and the mutual respect that comes from shared struggleCynthia reflects on the emotional journey behind her latest film and the lessons learned from setbacks Practical Wisdom: How to introduce yourself beyond your job or achievementsTools for building self-belief and showing up as your best selfThe importance of community in endurance sports and beyondWhy it’s essential to separate your worth from your wins and losses Personal Growth: Cynthia’s evolution from athlete to organizer, filmmaker, and mentorRebecca’s ongoing journey to find meaning and presence in adventureHow both use movement and storytelling as vehicles for self-discovery and connectionThe role of vulnerability and honesty in building a meaningful life Helpful Links: Cynthia’s Website: wattwagon.ccCynthia’s YouTube: @wattwagonCynthia’s Films: Two Steps Forward, One Step Back: Racing the Transcontinental After Everything Fell ApartCynthia’s Instagram: @watt_wagon Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Rebecca’s Private Idaho—an event that’s all about showing up as your full self, finding community in the wild, and discovering what you’re capable of beyond the finish line. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want to ride with purpose, RPI is where adventure and connection meet. Join us in Sun Valley for an unforgettable experience on and off the bike. Registration is open now at rebeccasprivateidaho.com. Support What’s the Rusch If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or post your favorite insight on social media. Your support helps us keep bringing you these honest, inspiring conversations. Subscribe and Follow Rate, Review, and Share Become a Partner: Interested in aligning your brand with authentic conversations about performance, purpose, and growth? Contact Aerah@RebeccaRusch.com for sponsorship opportunities and our media kit. Connect with Rebecca: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road

    1h 10m

  6. Mar 25

    Clarity Within: Vision and Healing with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum | EP41

    Rebecca Rusch welcomes Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a visionary in neuro-optometry and founder of MyVision First, Vision Performance Training, and ScreenFit. This episode unpacks how the way we see, literally and figuratively, shapes our sense of safety, healing, and performance. Dr. B’s journey began with his own childhood vision struggles, fueling a mission to help others retrain their visual brains after injury, overload, or simply the demands of modern life. Together, Rebecca and Dr. B explore the intersection of vision, resilience, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible when we address the root causes that limit our potential. In This Episode, Rebecca and Dr. B Explore: The difference between eyesight and true vision—and why it matters for performance, healing, and self-perceptionHow Dr. B’s personal experience with vision therapy transformed his life and purposeThe hidden impact of visual processing on confidence, learning, and movementWhy addressing the root cause—not just the symptoms—unlocks real growthThe shift from reactive to proactive vision care, and what it means for athletes, patients, and everyday humansHow our visual system is overloaded by modern screens and what we can do about itThe power of awareness, patience, and trust in the brain-body connection Transformative Insights Vision is more than seeing clearly—it’s about how we interpret and interact with the worldHealing and high performance both start with understanding and retraining the visual brainOur sense of safety, confidence, and potential is deeply tied to how we see ourselves and our environmentThe brain’s plasticity means change is always possible, no matter your starting point Vulnerable Moments Dr. B shares how childhood struggles with vision shaped his identity and career pathRebecca reflects on her own concussion recovery and the wish to have found vision therapy soonerBoth discuss the emotional journey of moving from frustration and limitation to empowerment and purpose Practical Wisdom How to recognize when vision—not just eyesight—may be holding you backSimple strategies to reduce screen overload and support healthy visual processingThe importance of seeking care that addresses the whole person, not just isolated symptomsBuilding trust in your body’s ability to adapt and heal Personal Growth Dr. B’s evolution from patient to practitioner, and his commitment to changing the paradigm of vision careRebecca’s ongoing journey to integrate new tools for healing and performanceThe ripple effect of sharing our stories—how one person’s breakthrough can inspire hope and action in others Helpful Links Dr. Bryce Appelbaum’s Website: MyVision FirstScreenFit ProgramVision Performance TrainingDr. Bryce Appelbaum on InstagramDr. Bryce Appelbaum on LinkedIn Sponsor Get $200 off ScreenFit™ using code RUSCH Take 10% off selected MyVisionFirst shop products using code RUSCH Connect with Rebecca: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road

    1h 6m

  7. Mar 11

    Jay Petervary, Part 2: Listening to the Trail: Lessons from the ITI | EP40

    This is Part 2 of Rebecca’s conversation with Jay Petervary, recorded just days after his 13th attempt at the Iditarod Trail Invitational (ITI) in Alaska. If you haven’t listened to Part 1: Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance, go back and catch the pregame episode for the full story and context. In this follow-up, Jay is fresh off the trail, still in Alaska, reflecting on what it means to show up for a race with big goals only to have the weather and trail conditions force a different outcome. He shares honestly about the decision to stop short of the 1,000-mile finish, the mental and physical toll of pushing against nature, and the humility required to accept when the trail has other plans. Jay and Rebecca explore the tension between relentless drive and deep listening, the wisdom that comes from decades of endurance, and how letting go can sometimes be the bravest move of all. Key Topics: The reality of facing unpredictable conditions on the ITI and making the call to stop before the finishHow Jay’s mindset has evolved after years of racing, and what it means to listen to the trail and your own limitsThe emotional aftermath of a race that doesn’t go as planned, and the lessons found in disappointmentThe ongoing process of recovery—physically, mentally, and emotionally—after high-stakes adventureThe value of reflection, community, and honest storytelling in the wake of challenge Memorable Moments: Jay describes the moment he realized the ITI would not go as planned, and the internal dialogue that followedReflections on the difference between “old Jay” and the wisdom that comes with experienceHonest talk about the pressure to perform, the expectations we set for ourselves, and the courage it takes to walk away Reflection Questions: When have you had to change course, even when you were deeply committed to a goal?What does it look like to honor your limits without losing your drive?How do you process disappointment and find meaning in the aftermath? Resources & Links: Part 1: Ride Forward: The Art of EnduranceJay's websiteJay's InstagramFat PursuitIditarod Trail Invitational Connect with Rebecca: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road

    47 min

  8. Mar 4

    Ride Forward: The Art of Endurance with Jay Petervary | EP39

    In this episode of What’s the Rusch, Rebecca Rusch welcomes ultra-endurance cycling legend Jay Petervary for a conversation that moves far beyond finish lines and records. Jay, known for pioneering bikepacking, setting iconic records on the Tour Divide and Iditarod Trail Invitational, and founding events like Fat Pursuit, opens up about the deeper motivations that drive his journey. Together, Rebecca and Jay explore the art of embracing uncertainty, the quiet power of simplicity, and the importance of community in endurance sports. Jay’s story is a testament to resilience, mentorship, and the freedom found in letting go of perfection. Show Notes: In this episode, Rebecca and Jay explore: The evolution from adventure racing to redefining ultra-endurance cyclingHow Jay’s “Ride Forward” philosophy shapes his approach to life, sport, and mentorshipThe role of adaptability and continuous learning in both racing and personal growthWhy building community and sharing knowledge matter more than medalsThe mental and emotional challenges of self-supported racing—and the lessons found in solitudeGear innovation: how tinkering and necessity led Jay to revolutionize bikepacking equipmentThe origins and spirit behind the Fat Pursuit and Gravel Pursuit eventsNavigating setbacks, uncertainty, and the unexpected with curiosity and grace Transformative Insights: The value of “perfect is good enough” in high-stakes environmentsHow letting go of rigid expectations opens space for discovery and joyThe importance of mentorship and inviting others into the wild unknownWhy the most meaningful achievements are often the ones shared with community Vulnerable Moments: Jay reflects on the discomfort of public recognition and the challenge of self-definitionRebecca and Jay discuss the tension between solitude and connection in endurance pursuitsHonest stories about failure, recalibration, and the courage to keep moving forward Practical Wisdom: Approaching adversity as an opportunity for growth, not just a hurdle to overcomeSimple practices for staying grounded during long, uncertain journeysThe power of curiosity and play in sustaining motivation Personal Growth: Jay’s ongoing journey to balance ambition with presenceRebecca’s reflections on learning from Jay’s mentorship and friendshipHow both have found meaning in letting go of what no longer serves them Helpful Links: Jay Petervary’s Website: https://www.jaypetervary.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jay_petervary/Fat Pursuit: https://www.fatpursuit.com/Gravel Pursuit: https://www.gravelpursuit.com/Iditarod Trail Invitational Sponsor: Support What’s the Rusch Love the show? Share it, review it, or text it to a friend who needs it. Connect with Rebecca: Website Instagram LinkedIn Substack Blood Road

    1h 4m
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Trailer

4.9
out of 5
46 Ratings

About

What’s the Rusch is a podcast about finding stillness and shedding the armor we wear to reveal the masterpiece within. Hosted by Rebecca Rusch—a seven-time world champion, Hall of Fame athlete, celebrated endurance icon, Emmy winner, and founder of the Athlete Operating System—the show takes listeners on a transformative journey with some of the world’s most accomplished individuals. Known as the "Queen of Pain" for her unmatched grit, Rebecca shifts the spotlight to a deeper truth: the most profound growth often comes not from what we achieve, but from what we let go of.    Inspired by Michelangelo’s insight in creating the statue of David by chiseling away everything that wasn’t David, Rebecca champions the art of shedding: shedding fear, baggage, and the armor we build to protect ourselves. Each episode delves behind the scenes of high achievers, exploring what they’ve had to lose to become whole. What identities have they outgrown? What vulnerabilities have unlocked their greatest triumphs? And what lessons can we take from their private battles to shed what no longer serves us?   With conversations navigating ancient wisdom, modern science, and personal revelation, What’s the Rusch redefines the boxes we’re put in, revealing the hidden versions of who people are and the powerful truths they carry. Rebecca’s own path—marked by extreme challenges and moments of vulnerability—sets the tone for uncovering the humanity behind the headlines.   This is more than a podcast—it’s an explorer’s guide to becoming your own masterpiece by pausing and removing everything that isn’t you. Through the stories of leaders you know and the truths you don’t, What’s the Rusch invites you to embrace the courage to shed your armor, redefine your identity, and navigate your own extraordinary and adventurous path.

Information

  • Creator
    Rebecca Rusch
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Rebecca Rusch
  • Show Website
    What's The Rusch

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